Principal Cyber Security Specialist

Principal Cyber Security Specialist
Salary: £51,473 - £57,575; Term: 14-Month Fixed-Term Contract; Location: Hybrid (2 days a week in Birmingham)

Are you ready to lead the charge in securing the digital future of a major regional authority? We are seeking a Principal Cyber Security Specialist to take full ownership of operational security infrastructure and systems for a prominent public sector organisation. This is a pivotal role designed to drive a large-scale transformation from legacy platforms to modern, secure, and scalable cloud solutions. As the "go-to" technical authority, you will provide the critical guidance needed to build resilience and excellence across all digital services.

What You Will Be Doing

• Strategic Transformation: Drive the migration from on-premise to cloud solutions while adopting emerging technologies (PaaS, SaaS, IaaS).
• Operational Leadership: Manage and improve security systems across hybrid environments, ensuring robust backup and recovery protocols.
• Incident Mastery: Lead senior-level IT support, focusing on high-level incident response and the triaging of complex security issues.
• Governance & Risk: Define and maintain security policies in alignment with NCSC, NIST, MITRE, and GDPR frameworks.
• Team Development: Mentor junior staff and share technical knowledge to strengthen the team's overall security posture.
• Process Improvement: Drive automation and process enhancements to ensure security enables, rather than hinders, business operations.

The Professional Profile

We are looking for a hands-on expert who isn't afraid to "dive under the bonnet" to understand and improve complex technical systems.

• Microsoft Defender: Deep, hands-on experience with this toolset is a prerequisite.
• SOC Expertise: You must have a strong understanding of-or direct experience working within-a Security Operations Centre (SOC).
• Security Controls: A deep understanding of firewalls, SIEM, and Data Loss Prevention (DLP).
• Hybrid Cloud Tools: Proven proficiency with M365, Identity & Access Management (IAM), and threat protection.
• Analytical Mindset: Strong skills in risk/vulnerability assessments and the ability to respond to evolving threats.
• Professional certification such as CISSP, Azure Security Engineer, or an equivalent degree.
• Exceptional communication skills, with the ability to tailor technical details for stakeholders at all levels.
• A detail-oriented approach with a strong focus on customer service and building end-user relationships.

Contact Nik Stoate at Venn Group for more information: